Contempt Charge: INEC Staff Allegedly Refuse to Accept Court Documents for Chairman Mahmood Yakubu
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is at the center of a fresh legal controversy after staff members allegedly declined to receive court documents meant for its Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu. The documents, including Form 48 — a legal notice of the consequences of disobeying a court order — were to be served as part of contempt proceedings initiated against the INEC boss.
The National Rescue Movement (NRM), through its National Publicity Secretary, Anselem Nebeife, raised the alarm in Abuja on Friday, June 20, 2025. According to Nebeife, efforts by the court bailiff, Mr. Ayuba Sule, to serve the documents at INEC headquarters were deliberately frustrated.
This development follows a ruling by Justice Obiora Egwuatu of the Federal High Court, Abuja, earlier in the week. The judge had approved NRM’s request to serve the contempt charge on Yakubu by substituted means — through any staff member of the commission at its national office. This order came after NRM accused INEC of failing to comply with a court judgment that recognised Chief Edozie Njoku as its national chairman.
Nebeife explained that Mr. Sule first approached the INEC Chairman’s office and identified himself, as requested by staff. After inspecting the court papers, staff reportedly declined to accept them and redirected the bailiff to the Legal Department. There, another staff member allegedly glanced at the Form 48, returned it, and remarked, “Can’t you see that this is Form 48? Please, I love my job ooo.” Frustrated, the bailiff left the documents on the floor of the Legal Department and exited the premises.
Legal experts note that Form 48 is a critical document that warns of the consequences of defying a court order. Justice Egwuatu had set July 15, 2025, for mention of the contempt proceedings, stressing that the court’s directive to serve the notice via any staff member must be respected.
This incident comes at a time when INEC is facing scrutiny over its compliance with court rulings and internal reforms. The outcome of the contempt proceedings could have implications for the commission’s leadership as preparations for the 2027 general elections intensify.
